“Everybody has a story to tell,” Joe Strummer once said. Now, this Joe Strummer Plaque tells a small part of his. We are standing at 33 Daventry Street NW1, London. This is the location of Joe Strummer’s squat during a highly creative period in his life. This Joe Strummer Plaque marks a significant spot in punk history.
The Joe Strummer Plaque commemorates Joe Strummer’s time here in 1978 and 1979. Although unofficial, this Joe Strummer Plaque serves as a community tribute. The official plaques require a 22-year waiting period after death. Joe Strummer died in 2002, not meeting the criteria. Yet, the community felt it vital to honor him sooner.
This area around Bell Street was truly the punk HQ of the UK scene. Malcolm McLaren lived nearby at 93 Bell St. That address even appeared on the first Sex Pistols press release. Steve Jones and Paul Cook also resided in Bell Street. The Damned rehearsed in a church nearby. The Slits hung out and rehearsed at 43 Daventry Street.
Julian Temple filmed Sid Vicious’ videos right here at 33 Daventry Street. The Clash used the Edgware Road Ice Cream parlor as their office. It was in the Lisson Grove Jobcentre that Mick and Paul famously spotted Joe.
The unveiling of the Joe Strummer Plaque occurred on December 7, 2016. This was also the release date of The Clash’s single “London Calling” back in 1979. The banner read, “Everybody has a story to tell.” Former squatters and friends attended the ceremony. Joe Strummer’s ex-wife Gaby, his widow Luce, and step-daughter Eliza were present.
After the unveiling, the group went to The Perseverance pub. They celebrated with drinks and mince pies. Photos taken by Joe Strummer around the neighborhood were on display. Joe Strummer, the musician wordsmith, gets his due.
Even though Malcolm McLaren and the Sex Pistols were known for deploying punk, The Clash truly developed its meaning. Punk is about fighting the status quo. It means standing against conformity and consumerism. Punk is about living life together without prejudice. In punk, everyone is equal. This is what Joe Strummer preached. This is what punk is all about.
So, as you stand before this Joe Strummer Plaque, remember the wordsmith. Remember the musician. Remember the punk. Joe Strummer’s legacy lives on. It inspires solidarity, community, and humanity. Without people, you’re nothing.